A recent study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine reveals a troubling link between cannabis use and increased workplace absenteeism. The research, conducted by the UC San Diego School of Medicine and the New York University Grossman School of Medicine, highlights how employees who use and abuse marijuana are significantly more likely to miss work, including both unscheduled absences and those due to illness or injury.

The study analysed data from the 2021–22 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, focusing on 46,500 full-time employed adults in the U.S. It found that recent and frequent cannabis use, as well as cannabis use disorder (CUD), is associated with greater workplace absenteeism. The study reveals that 16% of employees reported using cannabis in the past month, with approximately 7% meeting the criteria for CUD, which ranges from mild to severe.

Key findings on absenteeism

The data demonstrates a clear pattern: employees who use cannabis miss more work than their non-using counterparts. Specifically, those who used cannabis in the past month missed an average of 1.47 days due to illness or injury and 0.63 days due to skipping work. In contrast, non-cannabis users missed an average of 0.95 days due to illness or injury and only 0.28 days from skipping work.

The impact of CUD is even more pronounced. Employees with mild CUD missed an average of 1.74 days due to illness or injury and 0.62 days for skipping work. Those with moderate CUD missed 1.69 days due to illness or injury and 0.98 days from skipping work. The most severe cases of CUD resulted in the highest absenteeism, with employees missing 2.02 days due to illness or injury and 1.83 days for skipping work.

Frequency of use and absenteeism

The study also highlights how the frequency of cannabis use correlates with increased absenteeism. Employees who consumed cannabis once or twice a month missed an average of 0.48 days from work. Those who used cannabis between 20 to 30 days per month missed 0.7 days. Additionally, employees who used cannabis three to five days per month had the highest prevalence of missed days due to illness or injury, averaging 1.68 days. Notably, cannabis use from more than a month ago did not affect current absenteeism.

Implications and recommendations

The researchers argue that these findings underscore the need for enhanced monitoring, screening, and intervention strategies related to cannabis use and CUD in the workplace. They advocate for improved workplace prevention policies and programs designed to address and manage problematic cannabis use.

“Our study highlights the necessity of addressing cannabis use and misuse among employed adults,” the researchers wrote. “There is a critical need for workplaces to implement effective strategies for preventing and managing CUD to mitigate its impact on absenteeism and overall productivity.”

The study’s findings support existing literature on the connection between cannabis use and workplace absenteeism, although they contrast with some other research. For example, a previous study suggested a decline in sickness-related absences following medical marijuana legislation, while another found no significant link between cannabis use and absenteeism.

Limitations of the study

The authors acknowledge certain limitations in their research. The study relied on self-reported data, which may not fully capture the nuances of cannabis use, such as whether it was for medicinal or recreational purposes. Additionally, the study did not assess whether cannabis was consumed during work hours or account for other factors influencing cannabis use patterns.

Understanding cannabis use disorder (CUD)

Cannabis use disorder is a serious condition where individuals continue to use cannabis despite experiencing health and social problems. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 10% of cannabis users develop CUD, which affects nearly a third of all users. Higher risks are associated with adolescent use and frequent consumption.

Signs of CUD include:

• Persistent use despite physical or psychological issues
• Craving cannabis
• Giving up important activities in favor of cannabis use
• Increased tolerance, requiring more cannabis to achieve the same effects
• Persistent use despite negative consequences at work, home, or in social settings
• Using cannabis in risky situations, such as while driving

CUD has been linked to various adverse outcomes, including unemployment, cognitive impairment, and lower educational attainment. Additionally, individuals with CUD often face co-occurring mental health issues, such as other substance abuse disorders. The study also noted that 14% of respondents reported having alcohol use disorder within the past year.